With two days left to finalize the state’s budget, editorial boards are again amplifying the call by watchdogs for Governor Cuomo and the legislature to restore integrity to the state’s contracting process.

On Wednesday, Governor Cuomo outlined plans for the state's eighth annual regional economic development council competition, calling the program a success. But not everyone is convinced the approach is working.

Director of State Studies David Friedfel breaks down NYS school spending per pupil by federal, state, and local revenues. Most revenue comes from local property taxes, which is how wealthier school districts are able to spend more while still getting a considerable amount from the state and federal levels.

The Board of Regents is calling for a $1.2 billion increase in school funding next year, including nearly $1.5 billion for foundation aid. However, he Citizens Budget Commission says there is a much cheaper way to help low-income students.

Numerous prominent budget and transparency watchdog groups today called on New York leaders to hold emergency oversight hearings on the allegations by the U.S. Attorney of the largest bid-rigging scandals in state history.

Allegations in state government are bringing more light to the state's economic development - the cost of many programs continues to rise but the rate of return doesn't hold up. CBC's Dave Friedfel explains.

The Citizens Budget Commission (CBC) today released its 2016 Competitiveness Scorecard, which assesses the competitiveness of the New York City metropolitan area (NYC metro) in attracting and retaining highly educated talent.